Alfresco Pizza Oven Review – Everything You Need To Know
If you’re a pizza lover, you know that the quality of your pizza depends on the oven you use. While traditional ovens can do the job, they often lack the high temperatures required to make the perfect pizza. And this is where our Alfresco pizza oven review comes in.
Alfresco pizza ovens are known for their superior cooking performance and versatility. They can reach high temperatures quickly and consistently maintain them, which allows you to make restaurant-quality pizzas.
In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Alfresco pizza oven and its accessories, including its features, pros, and cons. We’ll also share our own experiences using these ovens.
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Overview Of The Alfresco Pizza Oven
Alfresco Grills has long been recognized as a brand that manufactures excellent quality pizza ovens. The company prides itself on using only the highest quality materials in its products, which are proudly manufactured in the heart of the United Kingdom’s ceramic industry.
One of the standout features of the Alfresco Pizza Oven is its ability to reach extremely high temperatures that conventional ovens can’t match. This allows you to achieve the perfect balance of a thin, crisp base and a perfectly charred artisan crust, which is essential for creating truly great Neapolitan-style pizza.
It’s also incredibly fast, preheating in approximately 15 minutes and cooking pizzas in less than five minutes.
One thing to remember is that this oven requires a fair bit of space, so make sure you have enough room for it in your kitchen or outdoor area.
Additionally, while there aren’t many downsides to the oven, it’s important to note that it is an investment and may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
Pros And Cons Of The Alfresco Pizza Oven
Pros
- Superior cooking performance: The Alfresco Pizza Oven is designed to cook pizza to perfection every time. With its powerful heating system and ceramic cooking floor, you can expect restaurant-quality pizza in your own backyard.
- It gets hot (in a good way): The oven reaches very high temperatures, which is ideal for pizza cooking.
- Easy to use: This pizza oven is incredibly user-friendly. We’ve personally found it to be easy to use and doesn’t take long to learn. The temperature is easy to adjust using the intuitive control panel.
- Durable construction: The Alfresco Pizza Oven is built to last. Its high-quality stainless steel construction is resistant to rust and corrosion, and the ceramic cooking floor is designed to withstand high temperatures without cracking or breaking.
- Versatile: This pizza oven isn’t just for pizza! You can use it to cook a variety of dishes, including bread, roast meats, and vegetables.
- You have options: Alfresco Grill sells multiple different options for the pizza oven so have choices of oven size, fuel type, and other extra features.
- Other things to note: It has efficient ceramic fiber insulation to keep the outside cool to the touch.
Cons
- Expensive: This pizza oven is definitely an investment, especially if you opt to buy the optional extras too. The Alfresco pizza oven is definitely one of the more expensive pizza ovens on the market compared to other brands. It may not be the best option for those on a tight budget, though many pizza enthusiasts do feel it’s still good value for money.
- Requires a gas line: Installation can be complex, particularly if you get the built-in model. The gas connections can also be a bit complicated, though not more so than other gas ovens.
- You won’t get the woodfire taste: It’s not a deal-breaker for many people, but hardcore pizza enthusiasts may prefer a more traditional pizza oven that uses wood chips or full wood logs as its heat source.
Build Quality
The Alfresco Pizza Oven is a commercial-quality pizza oven with stainless steel exteriors. And let me tell you: the build quality is exceptional.
It boasts a double-walled insulated top, a removable arch, and a ceramic ceiling slab, all designed to keep the high temperatures locked in for a uniquely high-performing oven.
Its stainless steel wood pipes (gas logs) allow it to have super fast heat distribution, contributing to its incredibly fast preheat time of just 15 minutes.
Internal halogen lights make it easy to see how your pizza is progressing, and the powerful rear burners deliver up to 40,000 BTUs of cooking power.
Alfresco Pizza Oven Design
You have a countertop and a built-in option to choose from. The built-in model is slightly larger than the countertop one, but they are identical in every other way.
Personally, I think the stainless-steel exterior and elegant glass doors create a striking balance between modern and retro designs – and it looks SO good on both the patio and kitchen counter!
I was also pleased to find a built-in storage space for all my pizza-making tools. Plus, the appliance’s adjustable legs allow for easy setup.
The build quality and materials are definitely one of the best we’ve seen in pizza ovens.
Size of the Alfresco Pizza Oven
The Alfresco Pizza Oven is arguably small for all the features it packs.
The built-in version measures 30” x 30” x 47.37”, while the countertop model is the same except for its height, which is only 24 inches.
Despite its small size, it offers 456 square inches of cooking space to feed plenty of guests.
Cooking Surface
The Alfresco Pizza Oven has a spacious cooking surface that can accommodate multiple pizzas. The cooking surface is made of high-quality refractory material that ensures even heat distribution and retention.
This material is also highly resistant to cracking and chipping, which makes it durable and long-lasting.
The cooking surface is available in different sizes, ranging from 24 to 42 inches, depending on your chosen model. The larger the cooking surface, the more pizzas you can cook at once, ideal for large gatherings or parties.
Fuel Type
The Alfresco Pizza Oven is available in natural gas or LP gas models, so you can choose the option that works best for you.
Some countries, like South Africa, also offer a woodfire Alfresco pizza oven, but they aren’t as freely available as the gas models. Of course, gas is convenient and clean, so it’s an excellent option for indoor or outdoor use.
Temperature Control
The Alfresco Pizza Oven has a built-in thermometer that allows you to monitor the temperature inside the oven.
It has a radiant heat distributor and infrared hearth heating system at the top, which allows for even heat distribution and an exceptional temperature range of 250oF to 1,000oF, ideal for making proper pizzas.
The oven also features a unique airflow system that ensures even heat distribution and retention.
This system allows you to control the temperature inside the oven by adjusting the airflow, which gives you greater control over the cooking process.
Optional Extras
If you want, you can also purchase an optional pizza oven cart to go with it. The carts have wheels for easy mobility, but they are made of the same stylish stainless steel so that they won’t look out of place.
There are two cart options. The first is the standard 30-inch pizza oven cart, which is compact enough to fit anywhere but only has one additional shelf to store a few essentials.
The second option is the Deluxe Pizza Oven Prep Cart. It’s perfect if you don’t have shelf space since it has plenty of extra room to prepare your pizza and store essentials like your pizza stone and herb box.
Alfresco Pizza Oven Performance Review
Heat Retention and Distribution
I found that the double-walled insulated top and the ceramic ceiling slab of the oven did an excellent job of retaining high temperatures and rapidly cooking the pizzas we put in it. The infrared hearth heating system was also pretty impressive and evenly distributed heat across the pizza stone.
This even heat distribution allowed us to make delicious Neapolitan pizzas with just the right amount of char on the crust. If you’re looking for an oven that can achieve these results, the Alfresco pizza oven is definitely one of the best pizza ovens out there.
Cooking Time
While trying different types of dishes in the pizza oven, I noticed that the preheating time was relatively short. With the powerful BTUs of cooking power, it didn’t take long to reach the desired cooking temperature. I could reach more than 800 degrees Fahrenheit in less than 20 minutes.
When it came to cooking pizzas, I was able to cook them in just a few minutes. Neapolitan pizzas, for instance, took around three minutes to cook, which is way faster than my regular oven. So, if you value efficiency and speed, this oven is a great choice.
Versatility
What I appreciated most about the Alfresco pizza oven was its versatility.
The removable arch and glass doors allowed for easy access, while the stainless steel herb box and water pan provided extra convenience. The oven can be run on natural gas or propane, making it a good option for various outdoor spaces.
Not only did I cook pizzas, but I also tried searing pork chops and even used a ceramic baking dish. The cast iron skillet feature let me prepare an iron-skillet sear, which resulted in a delicious dinner.
How to Use Alfresco Pizza Oven
In the end, the most crucial determinant of the quality of any pizza oven is the quality of the pizza it produces. And let me tell you: Alfresco actually delivers delicious, restaurant-quality pizzas.
Here’s how to make pizzas using the Alfresco pizza oven.:
- Start by preheating the oven to approximately 800oF (or higher if you prefer), which takes less than 20 minutes. You can use this time to prepare your pizza with all the toppings you like, and if you have the Deluxe cart, you can do it right next to the pizza oven as it’s warming up.
- When the oven’s ready, simply place the pizza on a pizza peel and insert it, then close the oven’s doors. Cooking time is really fast, so don’t move too far away from the oven. Most Neapolitan-style pizzas are ready within approximately 5 minutes.
- Unlike most ovens, where you have to rotate the pizza regularly, the Alfresco does a fantastic job distributing the heat evenly, especially if you use a pizza stone. It’s still okay if you rotate it, though, since it’s a bit of a habit for the most experienced pizza cooks.
The results of cooking with an Alfresco pizza oven are genuinely excellent. The oven’s high heat creates a perfectly crispy crust while melting the cheese and cooking the toppings to perfection.
The texture and flavor are perfect, as long as you keep in mind that it’s not a woodfire oven, so the taste won’t be the same as in some other ovens.
But pizza is not the only thing you can cook in an Alfresco pizza oven. You can also use the oven to roast vegetables, cook meats, and bake bread.
Installation Process
Setting up the Alfresco pizza oven was relatively easy – it came with clear instructions.
I’m really glad they included the internal halogen lights in the box. These were useful in monitoring the cooking pizzas during those late evening backyard parties.
Maintenance And Cleaning
Keeping your Alfresco Pizza Oven clean and well-maintained is crucial to ensure that it lasts for years to come. Here are some useful tips for cleaning and maintaining your pizza oven.
Cleaning the Interior
The high cooking temperature of a pizza oven helps burn off most of the food debris. However, you still need to regularly clean the interior to prevent buildup.
Use a long-handled brush to scrub the interior with soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry out completely before using it again.
Cleaning the Grate
The pizza oven grate must be cleaned after every use. Use a long-handled brush to scrub the grate with soapy water.
Rinse it thoroughly and leave it to dry completely before using it again. If there is any stubborn residue that won’t come off, you can use a grill brush to scrub it off.
Maintaining the Burner
The burner is the heart of the pizza oven and needs to be maintained regularly to ensure that it functions properly.
Check the burner for any signs of wear and tear, and replace it if necessary. You should also clean the burner regularly to prevent any buildup of grease or debris that can affect its performance.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is so important to make sure that your Alfresco Pizza Oven lasts for years.
Check the oven regularly for any signs of wear and tear, then replace any damaged parts as necessary. You should also lubricate any moving parts to ensure that they function correctly.
Alfresco Pizza Oven Review: Alternatives
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Alfresco pizza oven, here are some other top-rated pizza oven brands and models you may want to consider:
A good option for home cooks is the Ooni pizza ovens, like Ooni Karu and Ooni Koda, known for their high heat and square inches of cooking surface.
These ovens are fueled by wood pellets or gas and can also easily cook Neapolitan pizzas in a matter of minutes.
While the Alfresco pizza oven offers great value for its quality, the Ooni Fyra could be a good choice too for those with limited outdoor space and storage space, considering its compact size and adjustable legs.
It has radiant heat and great product design, which makes it a favorite among many cooks.
Another option is the Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven. It’s a compact and versatile pizza oven that can be used with gas or wood-fired fuel.
It can reach temperatures of up to 932°F, which allows for quick and even cooking. It features a durable stainless steel construction, a removable stone floor, and a built-in thermometer for precise temperature control.
Lastly, we recommend the Blackstone Outdoor Pizza Oven as an alternative to the Alfresco pizza oven.
It’s a great pizza oven that can cook pizzas up to 16 inches in size.
It’s gas-powered and can reach temperatures of up to 900°F. It also features a convenient storage shelf and collapsible legs, making it easy to store and transport.
That being said, while there are several alternatives out there, I have found that the Alfresco pizza oven is the absolute best pizza oven overall for home cooks looking to achieve that perfect Neapolitan pizza in their outdoor cooking space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use an Alfresco Pizza Oven?
Using an Alfresco Pizza Oven is very simple (thank goodness!)
All you need to do is turn your knobs on after your gas fuel is connected. Once the oven is preheated, you can start cooking your pizza. Just place your pizza on the pizza stone and close the lid.
Keep an eye on the temperature gauge to ensure the oven stays at the optimal temperature for cooking. Your pizza should be ready after a few minutes!
How do you properly care for an Alfresco Pizza Oven?
To keep your Alfresco Pizza Oven in good condition, you need to clean it regularly.
Start by removing any leftover food or debris from the oven. Then, use a sponge or a soft-bristled brush to scrub the inside and outside of the oven. Avoid using abrasive chemicals as they can damage the oven’s finish.
Covering your oven when it’s not in use is also a good idea.
What is the warranty on Alfresco Pizza Ovens?
Alfresco Pizza Ovens come with a limited lifetime warranty on the stainless steel parts and a 1-year warranty on the other parts.
This warranty covers all defects in materials or workmanship, but it does not cover any damage caused by wear and tear or misuse.
If you have any issues with your Alfresco Pizza Oven, contact the manufacturer for assistance.
Can you cook things other than pizza in an Alfresco Pizza Oven?
You can use an Alfresco Pizza Oven to cook various other foods, including bread, vegetables, and meats. Just keep in mind that the oven is designed for high-heat cooking, so it may not be suitable for all types of dishes.
It’s also important to use the right cooking tools, such as a pizza peel or tongs, to avoid burning yourself.
How hot does Alfresco pizza oven get?
Alfresco pizza ovens can reach extremely high temperatures, making them perfect for cooking pizzas. They can preheat in just 15 minutes, providing the high heat needed for Neapolitan pizzas and other food items.
What is the world’s No 1 pizza oven brand?
In my opinion, there isn’t one single pizza oven brand that is considered the world’s No 1. The best pizza oven would depend on your personal preferences, cooking style, and other factors. Some popular pizza oven brands include Ooni Pizza Ovens and Alfresco Pizza Ovens. Each has its perks, and both produce high-quality pizzas.
What pizza oven does Guy Fieri use?
Guy Fieri uses a variety of pizza ovens, one of which is the Alfresco Pizza Oven Plus. He even cooked Neapolitan pizzas on an episode of Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives using this specific oven model. With its infrared hearth heating system, it’s a popular choice among chefs and home cooks alike.
Is an outdoor pizza oven worth it?
An outdoor pizza oven can be a great addition to your home, depending on your cooking style and preferences.
They offer a unique cooking experience that allows you to create delicious, high-temperature pizzas and other dishes.
In my opinion, an outdoor pizza oven is a good investment if you enjoy entertaining and cooking outdoors.
How long does an outdoor pizza oven last?
The lifespan of an outdoor pizza oven depends on various factors like the build quality, usage, and maintenance.
An Alfresco pizza oven, for instance, is made with high-quality materials and has a robust manufacturing process, which should ensure it lasts for many years.
With proper care and maintenance, these ovens can provide a great cooking experience for a long time.
Why are outdoor pizza ovens so expensive?
Outdoor pizza ovens can seem expensive due to the materials used, craftsmanship, and performance capabilities they offer.
High-quality pizza ovens, like those from Alfresco, are engineered to deliver high heat and performance.
However, there are more affordable pizza oven options like the Ooni’s range available that still offer quality results.
Final Thoughts: Is the Alfresco Pizza Oven Worth It?
Honestly, we thought this high-end product really does deliver on its promises. It’s efficient, innovative, stylish, and most importantly, makes crazy good pizzas.
One of the standout features is the oven’s ability to reach and maintain high temperatures, which is essential for making delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas.
While the price tag may be a bit steep for some, ultimately the Alfresco Pizza Oven is a worthwhile investment for people who love pizzas and often entertain. It’s durable, easy to use, and versatile.
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